Go Joe Bruin
Fansided

5 Former UCLA Bruins Poised for a Big 2016 NFL Season

By Michael Chavez

Dec 27, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr (55) against the New York Giants at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Giants 49-17. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr (55) against the New York Giants at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Giants 49-17. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 6
Next
Nov 22, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) is sacked by Green Bay Packers defensive end Datone Jones (95) during the third quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Packers defeated the Vikings 30-15. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 22, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) is sacked by Green Bay Packers defensive end Datone Jones (95) during the third quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Packers defeated the Vikings 30-15. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Datone Jones DE, Green Bay Packers

Here’s the case of a guy who has been miscast, and under performed. I’m not saying Jones is a bad player or even undeserving of a first round selection. In the right scheme and fit he is a game wrecker. Unfortunately, Jones has been moved around the defensive line quite a bit just to find a spot for him and has been outplayed by lower draft selections, namely Mike Daniels.

The Packers declined to pick up his rookie option and after this season, Jones will be a free agent. If he wants to stay in Green Bay he’s going to have to step up his game but if he wants to play at all in 2016 it’s important he shows what he is capable of.

This year he will play in the “elephant” position which has been made famous by Julius Peppers and I believe that should actually work wonders for him. Jones should have a big 2016 because he needs to. He’s getting a position change, he has the motivating factor and he has all the physical tools.

Next: AB All Day